Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Avicenna Chess International in Hamadan, Iran from Aug 22

Iran is not a traditional chess-playing nation, but chess is surely catching up in the country along with the rest of the Arab world and the Middle East. That makes the news of this chess tournament interesting - it's their 11th edition!

The Chess Association of 'Hamadan' province is holding the 11th edition of the 11th Avicenna International Chess Open Tournament with $10,000 in cash prizes. The event would be held from August 22-29, 2012, according to the latest chess news via Fide. Visit the official tournament site and info on Hamadan, one of the oldest centers of civilization (above is photo of stone lion carved by craftsmen of Alexander the Great).

Though, the chess tournament is open to all, each federation could nominate an official invitee. Organizing Committee shall provide free participation, domestic Transfer (from Tehran to Hamadan and return) and full board accommodation (with 3 meals per day) in Arian Hotel, for GM title holders. IM title holders (Rating above 2400) will have accommodation in Arian Hotel (breakfast only).

Deadline for Registration is August 12, 2012. Ten Thousand U.S.D (10000 USD) in cash, prizes shall be awarded. The Avicenna International Chess Open Tournament will be played in 11 rounds using the Swiss System. The time control shall be 90 minutes for the whole game with an increment of 30 seconds per move starting from move 1.